As the days shorten and temperatures drop, many individuals experience the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in winter. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), primarily known for treating trauma, can also be an effective therapy for SAD.
EMDR works by helping the brain process distressing memories and thoughts, which is crucial in SAD where negative thought patterns can exacerbate depressive symptoms. The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR, typically through guided eye movements, activates the brain’s natural healing processes.
In the case of SAD, EMDR therapy might focus on distressing thoughts related to winter, such as "Winter always makes me feel hopeless." Through EMDR, these thoughts can be processed and re-framed, alleviating the depressive symptoms associated with them.
In addition, EMDR can also address any past traumas or negative experiences that may contribute to the intensity of SAD. By processing these past experiences, individuals can often find their seasonal symptoms become more manageable.
It’s also important to complement EMDR with lifestyle changes recommended for SAD, such as light therapy, vitamin D supplementation, and maintaining a regular schedule. Together, these approaches can provide comprehensive support for those struggling with SAD.
If you are struggling with the shorter days of winter and feel that EMDR might be helpful to you, please reach out. We can help you to work through these feelings.
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